Fault‐Tolerant Control of a High‐Reliability Six‐Phase Axial Flux Switching Permanent Magnet Machine

ABSTRACT In this study, a novel six‐phase axial flux switching permanent magnet machine (AFFSSPM‐TS) with a twisted structure is explored to enhance fault tolerance and overall system reliability. This design integrates the advantages of flux switching permanent magnet (FSPM) machines, such as high‐power density and robust structural characteristics, while significantly improving fault resilience. The machine's electromagnetic behaviour and fault‐tolerant capabilities are assessed through experimental validation. To ensure stable torque output under single‐phase faults, an advanced control strategy is introduced, regulating the q ‐axis current and zero‐sequence components within the synchronous reference frame. This approach effectively mitigates torque loss caused by phase disconnection while optimising copper losses. Furthermore, a weighted multi‐objective optimisation framework, utilising a Genetic Algorithm (GA), is implemented to refine the fault‐tolerant current references, maximising torque output and minimising energy dissipation under fault conditions. For short‐circuit faults, a compensation strategy based on fault decomposition is developed, eliminating the need for complex real‐time computations by directly compensating for faulty phase currents. Experimental results on a prototype machine confirm the proposed control strategy's effectiveness in maintaining torque performance and fault‐handling capability.